Rhode Island Rest Area Rules

How long can you stay at a rest area in Rhode Island? Does Rhode Island allow overnight parking at its rest areas? Can you sleep in a car at a Rhode Island rest area? Is camping allowed? What are the full Rhode Island rest area rules?

Rhode Island Rest Area Rules

The State of Rhode Island has not adopted any laws or regulations about the use of its highway rest areas. Moreover, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation has not posted any signs at its rest areas regarding overnight parking or how long you can stay. However, the State does have signs posted that any vehicle left unattended at a rest area will be towed away.

At this time, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation has built only four rest areas in Rhode Island. Two of them double as welcome centers, while the other two are just parking areas.

How Long Can You Stay at a Rhode Island Rest Area

There is no maximum time limit. There are no signs posted at any of the rest areas limiting the length of stay. At this time, as long as you remain with your vehicle, you are allowed to remain at a rest area for as long as it takes to rest up enough to continue driving safely.

Is Overnight Parking Allowed at Rhode Island Rest Areas

Yes, overnight parking is allowed. There are no laws or regulations prohibiting overnight parking at rest areas in Rhode Island. There are no signs posted prohibiting overnight parking either. Moreover, these rest areas are open 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, which allows you to arrive in the evening and remain for as long as it takes to rest up enough to continue driving safely.

Can You Sleep in Your Car at a Rhode Island Rest Area?

Yes, you can sleep in your car. Rhode Island has no laws or regulations against sleeping in a vehicle while parked at a rest area. The state expects drowsy drivers to use their rest areas to get some sleep. They would prefer you do so inside your vehicle rather than sleep on the ground or on picnic tables.

Is Camping Allowed at Rhode Island Rest Areas?

Camping at rest areas is not specifically prohibited by law or regulation in Rhode Island. However, none of the rest areas in Rhode Island are designed to support camping. Two of the rest areas are just asphalt parking areas located along side I-95. The other two are just simple rest areas with restroom facilities and information centers. If you were to pitch a tent on the ground, or erect some other temporary shelter, you’d likely get a visit from a law enforcement officer. You are better off remaining in your vehicle and sleeping inside instead.

Where Can I Get List of Rest Areas in Rhode Island?

A map of rest areas in Rhode Island can be found at, “Rhode Island Rest Area Map“

More About Overnighting at Rest Areas & Truck Stops

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